Question:

Hello. I take Zyrtec occasionally for mild allergies to cat dander; ie: itchy eyes/nose, nasal congestion, runny nose. My main question is this: Whenever I am around cigarette smoke (or any smoke for that matter, but particularly cigarette) I get a severe headache and then nausea that, depending on the exposure, can last for a day or so. No one in my household smokes, nor do I, but I grew up in a house where both parents smoked heavily. I try to avoid anyone smoking if I can, but sometimes it`s unavoidable. The Zyrtec doesn`t really help with that particular problem. Any suggestions that I can pose to my ENT at my next appointment? Sorry for the length of this! Happy Holidays!

Answer:

You are experiencing an irritant respiratory response to environmental tobacco smoke. This is not uncommon and persons with underlying allergies may be especially prone. There is no evidence that tobacco smoke causes allergic reactions. It is likely that the smoke causes a reflex response in the nose causing increased nasal congestion etc. Avoidance is advised although it is possible that oral decongestants, intra-nasal antihistamines or intranasal steroids can be helpful in relieving some of these symptoms.

For more information:

Go to the Allergies health topic.